Sreyna is a 27-year-old woman who has been married for seven years. Together they have a five-year-old daughter in primary school. Sreyna works at a government office, while her husband is an electrician for a construction company in the capital of Phnom Penh.
When Sreyna was ten years old, she developed an ear infection that caused the tympanic membrane, or eardrum, in her right ear to perforate. As a result, she has been experiencing chronic pain in her right ear, as well as headaches and ringing noise for many years. She has difficulty hearing things clearly, which complicates her communication with others at work and home. She visited several hospitals for treatments over the years but has still been unable to find relief. Even if her symptoms stop for a while, her hearing is still impacted so she cannot communicate well. Consequently, Sreyna shared that she feels shy amongst her co-workers. Overall, the perforation causes Sreyna to feel ill often, which makes it hard for her to work and support her family.
Fortunately, our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre (CSC), can help Sreyna receive the treatment she needs to finally heal. On March 9th, she will undergo a myringoplasty procedure in her right ear, during which surgeons will close the perforation. CSC is requesting $464 to fund this procedure, including Sreyna’s medications, supplies, and inpatient care.
Sreyna shared, “I hope that my hearing will improve and I will stop having ear infections. I want to be a good mother and not miss so much work.”